ILION, N.Y. – Ilion Mayor Brian Lamica says two members of the village’s fire department are under investigation, after a complaint was filed by a former employee.
According to a statement released by Lamica Thursday, the complaint alleges the department engaged in conduct that could subject the village to legal liability.
Police started the investigation in the fall.
The investigation has led to changes in the command structure within the department. Lamica tells NEWSChannel 2 there is no fire chief at this time, and three deputy chiefs will be in charge of the department for now.
Read Lamica’s full statement below:
"It has come to the attention of the Village of Ilion Board of Trustees that there are comments being circulated on social media and through other media outlets regarding the operation of the Ilion Fire Department.
"On behalf of the Village Board, I want to take this opportunity to share information with our residents regarding the Ilion Fire Department so that the public has the facts.
"First, the safety of Village residents is of paramount importance to the Village Board. Changes have been made to the Command structure of the department with the goal of maintaining service and timely responses to calls.
"Second, residents need to know that the Village is in receipt of a complaint filed by a now former employee of the Village, alleging conduct which could subject the Village to legal liability. Based upon receipt of the Complaint, the Village has undertaken a comprehensive review and investigation of the operations of the Fire Department. As a result of the ongoing investigation, changes are being made and contemplated to ensure Village residents’ safety and the propriety of Village operations.
"The Village Board has a responsibility to take action when presented with information which may subject the Village to legal liability. While some individuals may prefer that the status quo in the Fire Department be maintained, the Board would not be fulfilling its responsibility by doing so.
"To the contrary, the Village Board is united in its position that a comprehensive review and investigation of the operation of the Fire Department is required. Such an inquiry by the Board is necessary to protect the Village from potential legal liability and ensure its compliance with applicable law, rule and regulation."